Phenomenal persons and cherished moments that shaped my life
It is my opinion that coaching stems from the belief that we have the answers and resolve within ourselves. A coach just happens to be the person who unlocks that potential. We have the tool box, we just need more and/or different tools and the direction to use those tools.
Mentoring however involves a lasting relationship that supports growth and development of someone who is less experienced and knowledgeable. The mentor usually has one or more areas of expertise and the mentee must want to learn and benefit from this opportunity which always entails communication.
There are differences between the two:
Coaching is task-oriented whereas mentoring is relationship-oriented!
Coaching is usually short-term, mentoring is long-term
Coaching is more likely performance driven, mentoring is development driven
Coaching focuses primarily on ability, mentoring on attitude
Coaching is usually around a specific objective, mentoring has an open and evolving agenda.
Both roles enhance skills, knowledge and performance and also inspires respect as a role model! In some instances, they intersect each other and enrich the lives of the recipient in a profound and insightful manner! I was fortunate enough to be the beneficiary of many of these “coinciding” gifts!
My maternal grandma had a great influence on my life. She died when I was 30 years of age and all these years later, her voice continues to be a constant echo in my spirit. I catch myself saying “my grandma said” so often that it has become a check-in moment during some conversations with my husband and adult children: “is that you or is that your grandma speaking?” Actually, I do not mind the teasing because it is a convenient excuse if I don’t want to own the moment!
Beside grandma who positively impacted my life, there were also well-intentioned persons who colored my world rather negatively. Thank goodness that grandma used to say: “every lesson, good or bad, teaches you something about yourself, so identify what it is and learn from it.
I will be sharing experiences from various persons who have inspired me. They shaped my world as they expanded my opinions, my filters and my views. They showed me how to funnel my judgments and take a stand in a compelling way with true conviction, thoughtfulness and responsibility. Many of them groomed me to stand up for my beliefs and work at my disbeliefs. Many of them were either a coach or a mentor and a few were interconnected, but I also had a few who set off a spark within me by their very existence and zest for life!
I am forever indebted to the role-models who walked and continue to walk, beside me. I hope you will join me, over the next few weeks, as I acknowledge and express my gratitude to those who inspired, informed, encouraged, nurtured, moved, motivated and challenged me.
Jenny Dennis – July 11, 2018